Band at the Beach Music Camp began its story as the Peninsula Wind Ensemble in Dell Schroeder’s backyard in 1988 with eight students in attendance.

That summer was close to the time instrumental music was returned to San Diego Unified School District, 10 years after Proposition 13 took it away.

“The philosophy of Band at the Beach is advocacy for music in our schools,” she said, “Without strong elementary feeder programs, the junior highs and high schools cannot compete. It is a thrill to see, that, after 25 years, our area is in full recovery. “

After 25 years of solid work by many dedicated professionals to bring the language of music to where it should be, said Schroeder, students’ reading and performance levels are back at where they belong.

Band at the Beach Music Camp will celebrate its 25th year between Aug. 5 and Aug. 9 at Correia Middle School, 4302 Valeta St. from noon to 4 p.m. daily.

The camp offers a free concert to the public in the Correia Auditorium on Friday, Aug. 9 at 4 p.m.

Tuition for the camp includes a snack service, T-shirts and the study of music with some of the best music teachers and advocates in the county.

There are daily raffles. The top raffle prize, to be given at the concert, is a Taylor Guitar, said Schroeder.

Camp registrations are being accepted until Aug 1.

There are openings for five more flutists, four French horns, three to four more clarinets and a tuba.

Schroeder said all sections are open except alto saxophone.

Graduated seniors may attend the camp free, as well as other and alumni. Mentors for younger students are welcome and a limited number of scholarships are available, said Schroeder.

For information, call Schroeder at (619) 222-3065, or visit www.bandatthebeach.org.